Currency

Britain’s currency is the pound sterling (£), which is divided into 100 pence (p). There are no exchange controls in Britain, so you may bring in and take out as much cash as you like.

Scotland has its own pound sterling notes. These represent the same value as an English note and can be used elsewhere in Britain, although it is usually with reluctance. The Scottish £1 note is not accepted outside Scotland.

Travellers’ cheques are the safest alternative to carrying large amounts of cash, but are not always accepted. Keep receipts from your travellers’ cheques separate from the cheques themselves. This makes it easier to obtain a refund if they are lost or stolen. Some high-street banks issue travellers’ cheques free of commission to their account holders.

When changing money, ask for smaller notes, since these are easier to use.